Turkey Taco Skillet, Easy 20-Minute High Protein Meal
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that’s packed with protein, the Turkey Taco Skillet is your answer. This one-pan meal is not only simple to make but also full of flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can have a hearty dish that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This Turkey Taco Skillet is a great choice for busy weeknights. It requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s high in protein due to the lean ground turkey, making it a healthy option for everyone. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or looking for a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition.
How to Make Turkey Taco Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean or extra lean ground turkey (I used 99% lean)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jar salsa (about 8 oz of your favorite, I use Siete’s Roja Salsa)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed, 15.5 oz (1¾ cups)
- 1 can corn, 15.25 oz (about 1.5 cups)
- 2 cups spinach (optional)
- ½ cup Monterey Jack shredded cheese
- 1 lime, juice of
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional but I highly recommend)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions:
- If using homemade taco seasoning, mix the spices together in a small bowl. If using a store-bought seasoning, skip this step.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the pan is heated, add ground turkey and taco seasoning. Break apart the ground turkey into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula. Brown ground turkey for about 4 minutes.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 7-8 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
- Add salsa, black beans, and corn, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes longer. If using spinach, add it in the last minute of cooking.
- Remove from heat and mix in cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
How to Serve Turkey Taco Skillet
Serve your Turkey Taco Skillet warm. You can garnish it with additional cilantro, avocado, or even sour cream. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served with tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad.
How to Store Turkey Taco Skillet
Store any leftover Turkey Taco Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for up to three days. When you want to reheat it, just warm it up on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Turkey Taco Skillet
- Make sure to break the ground turkey into small pieces so that it cooks evenly.
- You can add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using ground chicken or beef instead of turkey. If you want a spicier version, add some jalapeños to the skillet.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the turkey mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on your salsa and beans to confirm.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover Turkey Taco Skillet?
A: Absolutely! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
